# Trader Joe's Retinol Night Serum for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the Netherlands.

Brand: [Trader Joe's](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/trader-joe-s)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and hydration for your dry or flaky skin due to salicylic acid and sodium hyaluronate, but the presence of retinol and retinyl palmitate may cause dryness and irritation, counteracting the benefits for your dry skin type.
- The formulation provides excellent anti-aging effects by promoting skin renewal with retinol and retinyl palmitate, though it lacks sufficient emollient and humectant ingredients to fully support your dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this serum is frequently praised as a gentle and affordable option for those new to retinol, with users often noting its lightweight feel and positive effects on fine lines and skin texture. Many users find the baobab oil helps mitigate dryness, though some sensitive skin types report initial peeling or stinging, and experienced retinol users sometimes find it too mild for significant results.

- Liked: Gentle for beginners (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable price (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Quality packaging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Visible improvements (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Dryness and peeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Availability issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Initial irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of potency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Trader Joe's Retinol Night Serum a weak match for dry skin?

This serum is a weak match for dry skin because its retinol and retinyl palmitate may cause dryness and irritation. To fit dry skin well, a treatment of this type needs soothing and hydrating ingredients that support the skin barrier, such as propolis, niacinamide, ceramides, and peptides.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for dry skin?

Retinol and retinyl palmitate make this serum a poor fit because they may cause dryness and irritation on dry skin. To properly care for dry skin, a treatment of this type needs soothing, deeply hydrating, and skin barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and niacinamide.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### What does retinol do for dry skin?

Retinol is generally not the best choice for dry skin because it often causes flaking and irritation. Products of this type need to include soothing and barrier-protecting ingredients like ceramides and glycerin to keep dry skin comfortable and calm.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### What does baobab seed oil do for dry skin?

Baobab seed oil helps soothe dry skin by providing deep moisture that leaves it feeling soft and smooth. It is packed with nourishing fatty acids that absorb easily without feeling greasy, making it a great addition to your daily routine.

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, but because it is a weak match for dry skin, this skin type needs a product with plenty of rich moisturizing and soothing ingredients instead.

### Can I use it with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first to calm and hydrate your skin before putting on this serum. This product of this type needs rich moisturizing ingredients and soothing agents to protect dry skin from irritation.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can start using this serum once a week in the evening, as strong active ingredients like retinol may cause dryness and irritation on your dry skin. If your skin tolerates it well without flaking, you may slowly increase how often you apply it. Dry skin needs a product of this type to include rich moisturizing oils and deep hydration helpers to prevent irritation and fully support your skin barrier.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This product may cause dryness, peeling, and initial irritation, which can feel like purging on dry skin. Because it lacks sufficient rich, softening ingredients and includes exfoliating salicylic acid alongside retinol, a product for dry skin needs extra moisture and barrier-supporting ingredients to prevent flaky skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €25.00 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €20.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Laneige Water Sleeping Mask_EX](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/laneige/water-sleeping-mask-ex/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €33.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate Succinate, Sorbitan Oleate, Sodium Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Retinol Vitamin A, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Retinyl Palmitate Vitamin A Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate Vitamin C Palmitate, Salicylic Acid, Sorbic Acid
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/trader-joe-s/retinol-night-serum/for/dry-skin